Caroline Emerick, a Human Resource Management major from Columbus, Indiana, serves as our Bartholomew County Ambassador.

As a County Ambassador, Caroline has found a way to stay connected to her hometown while making a meaningful impact on campus. She was interested in being involved in the program because it provides her the ability to share her love for her hometown and make connections she may have missed out on otherwise. This role has given her a platform to highlight Bartholomew County and share her love of her community with her peers. One of Caroline’s most memorable experiences as a County Ambassador has been working with Visit Columbus Indiana to create content for their Instagram page. She spent time exploring the city, capturing beautiful moments, and taking promotional photos to help showcase Columbus and what it has to offer. “It’s been such a fun way to give back to my hometown and share it with others,” she says.

Choosing Ball State was an easy decision for Caroline. “It felt like the right place to call home for my collegiate experience,” she said. The atmosphere and strong sense of community at Ball State made a lasting impression and helped her feel at ease as she began a new chapter in her in her life. For Caroline, being actively involved on campus has been a key part of her college experience. She believes that taking on leadership roles has helped her grow tremendously—both as a leader and as an individual. “It’s influenced my leadership growth, skills development, and taught me to be more confident,” she reflects. When asked to offer advice to others students who are looking to take on leadership roles, Caroline encourages a mindset of openness and willingness to learn. “Say Yes. Even if it is something new or unfamiliar, the best way to learn is to do it!”

Outside of her academic pursuits and extracurriculars, Caroline enjoys antiquing and spending time in Columbus. Whether it’s visiting Mill Race Park with friends or playing tennis at her old high school courts, she loves taking a break and enjoying all the activities and opportunities back home. Looking toward the future, Caroline is focused on achieving her professional goal of becoming an HR associate within the retail business industry. Her passion for human resources and leadership, paired with the skills she’s developing as a student and County Ambassador, will propel her toward success after graduation.

With a bright future ahead and a deep connection to her community, Caroline is a shining example of what it means to be a County Ambassador. If you see her on campus or back in Columbus, don’t hesitate to say hello—her enthusiasm, leadership, and dedication are sure to inspire everyone she meets.